NEWCASTLE have agreed a deal to sign Matt Targett on loan from Aston Villa.
The full-back became available after Villa sealed a £25million deal for Lucas Digne earlier this month.
Toon boss Eddie Howe has been desperate to improve his defence as his team battle against the drop.
SunSport understands that a deal is now close for Targett to bolster Howe’s ranks.
The 26-year-old has started 17 of Villa’s 21 Prem games so far this term but has been left on the bench for their last two outings.
He remains under contract at Villa Park until 2025.
The former Southampton ace joins a host of new signings at St James’ Park.
Kieran Trippier became the first arrival of the Saudi era when he joined from Atletico Madrid.
The right-back has since been joined by Burnley striker Chris Wood and Lyon ace Bruno Guimaraes.
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Newcastle are also closing in on teenage forward Hugo Ekitike from Reims.
The 19-year-old will arrive for a fee rising to £33m.
Ekitike has scored eight goals in 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season.
Howe’s men are 18th in the table having won just twice all season.
But they did pick up three points last time out, beating Leeds 1-0 at Elland Road.
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